Ibrahim Gardner
Canada and Australia are two of the most popular countries for international students, particularly those from India, due to their high-quality education systems, English-speaking populations, and strong job markets. Both countries offer a range of academic programs, attracting students from around the world. However, there are several differences between the two countries in terms of admission requirements, popular courses, immigration rules, visa requirements, and the cost of living. This article will explore these differences and help you decide which country is the best option for your needs as an international student.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Language | Canada: English and French |
| Australia: English | |
| Climate | Canada: Four seasons, cold winters |
| Australia: Sunny, coastal climate | |
| Tuition fees | Canada: Affordable |
| Australia: High fees | |
| Cost of living | Canada: Affordable |
| Australia: High | |
| Work during study | Canada: 20 hours/week during term time, full-time during breaks |
| Australia: 40 hours/fortnight during term time, unlimited during breaks | |
| Work after graduation | Canada: No placement assistance, straightforward PR process |
| Australia: Placement assistance, longer PR process | |
| Top universities | Canada: McGill University (global rank: 30), University of Toronto (25), University of British Columbia (38) |
| Australia: Australian National University (34), University of Melbourne (13), University of Sydney (18), University of New South Wales (19) |
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What You'll Learn
Climate and weather
When it comes to climate and weather, Canada and Australia offer distinct experiences, largely due to their geographical locations and topography.
Canada has a wide variety of climates due to its latitudinal extent. The country experiences the influence of ocean currents, such as the warm waters of the Gulf Stream in the Atlantic and the Alaska Current in the Pacific. The prevailing air currents in the Pacific bring coastal British Columbia heavy precipitation and moderate temperatures, while the Great Lakes moderate the weather in southern Ontario and Quebec. These regions have hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The interior plains of Canada, including southern Ontario and Quebec, experience very cold winters and hot summers, with sparse precipitation. The northern two-thirds of the country, including the interior plains and the North, have extremely cold winters and short, cool summers, similar to northern Scandinavia. The west coast, particularly Vancouver, enjoys milder temperatures year-round compared to the interior regions.
On the other hand, Australia experiences a range of climatic conditions due to its vast size. There are six distinct climate groups: Equatorial, Tropical, Sub-tropical, Desert, Grassland, and Temperate. The Temperate zone includes coastal regions such as New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, and most of South Australia. This area experiences four distinct seasons, with summer lasting from December to February and winter from June to August. The southern outback has a dry and sunny climate year-round. The Grassland and Desert zones are characterised by high temperatures during the day and cooler nights, with the Desert zone experiencing semi-arid conditions.
Both countries offer opportunities for international student graduates to obtain legal work status after completing their studies. However, Australia has age restrictions for applicants, while Canada does not. Additionally, Canada's grocery prices are reported to be 6.9% lower than in Australia, which may be a consideration for students on a budget.
In summary, the climate and weather in Canada vary significantly across the country, from the mild temperatures of the west coast to the extremely cold winters in the interior and northern regions. Australia, meanwhile, offers a range of climatic experiences, from the Temperate coastal regions with four distinct seasons to the dry and sunny southern outback and the hot Desert zones. The choice between the two countries for international students may depend on individual preferences for climate and weather, as well as other factors such as academic programs, job prospects, and cost of living.
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Admission requirements
Canada
Canada is a popular study destination for international students, offering high-quality education at an affordable price. Canadian degrees and diplomas are valued worldwide. International students applying to Canadian universities are typically required to submit valid documents, including a study permit, passport, medical report, and proof of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). There is no age limit for applying for a student visa in Canada, although students who have taken time off from their studies may be required to offer an explanation for any gap years.
English proficiency tests, such as TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE, are often required for admission to Canadian universities. The CAEL exam is another option, which tests English proficiency in listening, writing, reading, and speaking. The score for this test is evaluated on a scale of 10 to 90, and results are available within 8 business days. Most institutions require an IELTS band score of 6-6.5 for undergraduate programs and 6.5-7 for postgraduate programs.
Australia
Australia is known for its pragmatic approach to education, offering high-quality education with relatively lower expenses compared to other countries. The country is renowned for its excellent support services for international students. To study in Australia, international students typically need to submit attested copies of their academic transcripts and other relevant documents. If these documents are not in English, certified translations must be provided along with the original copies.
For diploma-level courses in Australia, applicants need to score at least 60% in their Class 12 exams, with a minimum percentage of 65% required for admission. Australian universities recognize 3-year graduation degrees from India as equivalent to their Bachelor's degrees. Additionally, students applying for a stay of over 90 days in Australia must submit a copy of their current passport, passport-sized photos, a Confirmation of Enrollment (COE) document, and a registration letter from the Australian university they have applied to.
Both Canada and Australia offer international student graduates opportunities to obtain legal status and work in the country after graduating. However, there are differences in the options for postgraduate work status between the two countries, including age restrictions and eligibility criteria.
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Cost of living
The cost of living is a crucial factor for international students when deciding on a study destination. Both Australia and Canada offer world-class education, diverse cultures, and incredible opportunities for international students. However, the cost of living in these countries differs and is dependent on factors such as university, course, location, and personal expenses.
According to LivingCost data, the average cost of living in Australia for an individual is approximately AUD 3,839 per month, while in Canada, it is about CAD 2,989 per month. Australia ranks 12th on the global list of most expensive countries, while Canada is 15th. The cost of living in Canada is generally considered to be slightly lower than in Australia, but there are variations within each country depending on the city.
When it comes to specific expenses, food costs are generally higher in Australia, especially in major cities. On average, individuals can expect to spend around AUD 780 per month on food, including groceries and dining out. Transportation costs are also an important consideration, as they can accumulate daily and vary depending on the city, mode of transport, and availability of student discounts. Student accommodation costs vary between the two countries, with on-campus accommodation in Australia estimated at AUD 3,184 per month and CAD 2,881 in Canada. Utility costs (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) tend to be slightly higher in Australia compared to Canada, but these can also vary by city.
While the overall cost of living is a significant factor, other considerations may impact an international student's decision. Canada offers a range of scholarships for international students, including partially and fully funded options that can provide a monthly stipend along with tuition fees, accommodation charges, health insurance, and travel allowance. The fully funded scholarship for international students in Canada can amount to up to CAD 150,000. Additionally, Canada has a more welcoming immigration policy, a strong economy, and a robust job market, offering ample employment opportunities. However, due to recent inflation and strained relations with the USA, the cost of living in Canada has increased slightly.
In summary, Canada typically offers a slightly lower cost of living than Australia, but it is important for international students to research and carefully consider all factors, including tuition fees, accommodation, transportation, and personal expenses, to make an informed decision that aligns with their budget and preferences.
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Job opportunities
Canada and Australia are both excellent choices for international students seeking job opportunities, each with its own unique advantages. Here is a detailed comparison of the job prospects and related factors in these two countries.
Canada boasts a robust economy and a strong job market, offering numerous opportunities for job seekers. The country has a particular demand for skilled professionals, and its powerful economy is one of the strongest in the world. Canada's aging population has led to a shortage of skilled workers, prompting the government to actively recruit skilled professionals from abroad, including international students. This creates favourable conditions for students aiming to work in Canada post-graduation. Canadian universities also offer a wide range of programs in various fields, ensuring that students can develop the skills needed in the Canadian job market. The country's strong sectors include technology, healthcare, and finance. Additionally, Canada provides post-graduation work permits, allowing students to gain valuable work experience by working for up to three years after completing their studies. The country also offers simplified immigration pathways, such as Express Entry and PGWP, making it relatively easier for international students to transition to permanent residency. However, it is important to note that Canada has recently experienced an increase in the cost of living, which may impact overall affordability.
On the other hand, Australia also boasts a thriving job market, especially in sectors such as IT, healthcare, construction, education, professional-scientific & technical, and hospitality. Australia's strong economic performance over the last decade has contributed to its attractive job market. The country offers post-graduation work visas, allowing students to work for up to four years after completing their studies, providing ample time to gain work experience. Australia's relaxed lifestyle, friendly culture, and warmer climate make it an appealing destination for students seeking a pleasant work environment. Additionally, Australia's self-assessed job security is higher than Canada's, with an average job retention rate of 89% across the country. Australia also has the advantage of charging lower taxes than Canada, which can positively impact the take-home salary of employees. However, obtaining permanent residency in Australia can be a lengthy and complex process, as immigration officials conduct thorough background checks.
In conclusion, both Canada and Australia present robust job markets and unique opportunities for international students. Canada stands out for its demand for skilled professionals and simplified immigration pathways, while Australia shines with its diverse sectors, higher job security, and lower taxes. The decision between the two countries ultimately depends on individual preferences, skill sets, and long-term goals.
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Immigration rules
International students who wish to study in Australia must first be accepted into an Australian educational institute before applying for a student visa. When applying for a visa, students need to supply a confirmation of enrolment issued by the Australian educational institution, which serves as proof that the student intends to stay in Australia for educational purposes. Students are advised to apply for their visa as early as possible due to the time it takes to process the application.
Under the student visa, international students in Australia can work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and unlimited hours during school breaks. PhD and master's students enrolled in research-based programs have no limit on the number of hours they can work. There is no distinction between on-campus and off-campus work hours.
Australia provides international student graduates with the opportunity to obtain legal status to work in the country after graduating. Applicants must be aged 35 or younger (with some exceptions). Graduates who have completed a Bachelor's or Master's degree from Australian universities and hold a study visa are eligible to apply for a post-study work visa. Diploma holders or other qualified graduates may be eligible to apply for an 18-month subclass 485 visa through the graduate work stream. Applicants can extend their stay in Australia by two years and up to six years based on their level of study.
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491) is a points-based visa for skilled workers who want to live and work in regional Australia. Applicants must be nominated by a state/territory government or sponsored by an eligible relative and have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list. Points are awarded based on age, education, work experience, and English proficiency, with additional points for regional nomination or sponsorship. This visa is valid for five years and provides a pathway to permanent residency.
In Canada, international students must prove language proficiency while applying for a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) before the study permit process. Most institutions require an IELTS band score of 6-6.5 for undergraduate programs and 6.5-7 for postgraduate programs. Students are also required to meet stricter financial requirements, with the Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) requirement doubling from $10,000 to $20,635 in 2024.
International students in Canada can now work up to 24 hours per week off-campus while their classes are in session. During scheduled breaks, such as summer or winter holidays, there is no limit on the number of off-campus hours students can work. Students must apply and be approved for a new study permit before changing learning institutions. A two-year cap on study permits has been introduced, limiting the number of international students allowed to enter Canada.
Both Canada and Australia offer a diverse range of academic programs, making them top choices for students seeking to study abroad.
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Frequently asked questions
The cost of studying in Canada and Australia depends on factors like the university, course, location, and personal expenses. The cost of living in Australia is approximately $25,000 AUD per year. Groceries in Canada are 6.9% lower than in Australia.
Canada experiences four distinct seasons, with pleasant summers and very cold winters, with temperatures reaching as low as -30 degrees Celsius. In contrast, Australian cities are known for their sunny beaches and pleasant coastal climate, with year-long temperatures ranging from 25-32 degrees Celsius.
In Canada, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during school terms and full-time during breaks. In Australia, students can work up to 48 hours every two weeks during term time and unlimited hours during breaks. Both countries offer pathways to obtain legal work status after graduation, but the processes differ. Canada has no age restrictions and offers long-term post-graduation employment visas, while Australia requires applicants to be 35 or younger and has different visa categories.
Canada offers a relatively straightforward process for international students to obtain PR status. Students can apply for PR after obtaining a Post Graduate Work Permit or through the Express Entry process. Australia has a more complex and lengthy process, with a points-based system and various visa categories. The most common method is to apply for an Employer-Sponsored Visa after working in Australia for three years.
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